Mental Status Examination (MSE): A Comprehensive Review
Introduction
Mental status examinations (MSEs) are a crucial component of clinical assessment and are employed to determine a patient’s cognitive and affective functioning. The examination assesses a patient’s current level of mental functioning, which can be used to diagnose mental health conditions, plan treatment, and monitor the patient’s response to treatment. To provide an accurate assessment, the MSE should be comprehensive and take into account the patient’s physical, psychological, and social functioning.
Methodology
The MSE is typically conducted by a psychiatrist or psychologist and involves the clinician observing and interacting with the patient. The examination includes an assessment of the patient’s physical appearance, behavior, mood, thought processes, and cognition. The examiner also takes into account the patient’s speech, motor skills, and memory. Additionally, the examiner will assess the patient’s level of insight and judgment.
Results
The results of the MSE are used to diagnose mental disorders and to inform treatment plans. The results can also be used to monitor the patient’s response to treatment over time. The MSE may also be used to assess the patient’s risk of self-harm or harm to others and to detect any cognitive impairment due to drug or alcohol use.
Discussion
The MSE is a valuable tool for assessing a patient’s mental functioning. It is important for clinicians to conduct a comprehensive examination, taking into account the patient’s physical, psychological, and social functioning. Additionally, the MSE should be conducted regularly to monitor the patient’s progress and response to treatment.
Conclusion
The MSE is a comprehensive and valuable tool for assessing a patient’s mental functioning. The results can be used to diagnose mental disorders, to inform treatment plans, and to monitor the patient’s response to treatment.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Association.
Davison, G. C. & Neale, J. M. (2017). Abnormal psychology (19th ed.). Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.
Kapalka, G. M. (2011). Clinical psychopharmacology (2nd ed.). Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.
Spiegel, D. A. & Hunt, J. I. (2016). The Mental Status Examination in Neurology (4th ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.